Mounting assemblies for solar panel systems and methods for using the same

ABSTRACT

A solar panel mount assembly includes a base portion mountable to an installation surface, and a support arm defining a support shoulder. The support arm is coupled to the base portion. The support arm and base portion cooperate to accommodate positioning the support arm at an adjustable distance relative to the installation surface. The solar panel mount assembly further includes a rotatable clamp assembly coupled to the support shoulder, and includes at least two brackets that releasably secure a portion of one or more solar panels.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 14/671,669, filed on Mar. 27, 2015, which claimsthe benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/973,785, filedon Apr. 1, 2014, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated byreference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to solar panel installation, and morespecifically to solar panel mounting assemblies and methods for usingthe same.

2. Introduction

As solar energy becomes more economical to produce electricity fordirect consumption, more solar energy systems are being installed onrooftops. Typically, components of the solar energy systems such assolar panels are installed using conventional mounting structures,including support beams and L-type brackets. Operatively, the solarpanels are secured to the support beams, which in turn, are secured tothe L-type brackets. The L-type brackets are then bolted to a structure(e.g., a rooftop, etc.). However, such conventional mounting structurestypically have minimal adjustability, and require a large number ofsupport beams to adequately support each solar panel. Accordingly, theseconventional mounting structures can result in excessive material andextensive installation time.

SUMMARY

Solar energy module support assemblies are described herein and provideflexible, three-dimensional adjustability to secure a solar panel to aninstallation surface. Certain embodiment discussed herein includefeatures that permit pre-subassembly of the support assemblies forreduced down-stream labor, and rapid installation, adjustment, andsecurement of a module to a supporting surface.

According to one embodiment, a solar panel mount assembly includes abase portion, a support arm coupled to the base portion (e.g., usingcomplimentary threading patterns, etc.), and a rotatable clamp assembly.The support arm defines a support shoulder, and the rotatable clampassembly couples to the support shoulder. The support arm and baseportion cooperate to accommodate positioning the support arm at anadjustable distance relative to the installation surface. Further, thesolar panel mount assembly includes a rotatable clamp assembly coupledto the support shoulder. The rotatable clamp assembly typically includesat least two brackets that releasably secure a portion of one or moresolar panels. The at least two brackets are composed of a first bracketcomponent and a second bracket component. A first bracket componentincludes a top flange and bottom flange on a first side that define thefirst bracket. Also, the first bracket component includes a top flangeon a second side which coordinates with a bottom flange of the secondbracket component to define the second bracket.

In some embodiments, the solar panel mount assembly includes a fastenerthat couples the clamp assembly to the support arm. The fastener definesa fastener axis, which the rotatable clamp assembly rotates about. Thefastener, in these embodiments, can permit or prohibit rotation of therotatable clamp assembly.

In other embodiments, the base plate can include a flashing having aprotrusion. Such protrusion is received by a cavity defined in the baseportion. In this fashion, the protrusion effectively creates a sealaround a fastener disposed in the cavity (e.g., to secure the baseportion to the flashing and/or the installation surface).

In certain other embodiments, the solar panel mount assembly furtherincludes a retaining clip disposed between the support arm and the clampassembly. The retaining clip can secure wires to the solar panel mountassembly and/or it may secure a fastener to a support arm. The retainingclip can include one or more protrusions that penetrate a coating (e.g.,an anodization layer) of the support arm and clamp assembly to provideelectrical connectivity there-between (e.g., including the support arm,the clamp assembly, and the fastener, etc.)

In alternative embodiments, one of the two bracket components of therotatable clamp assembly have at least a portion configured forindependent degrees of displacement relative to the other bracketcomponent (e.g., when the other bracket component releasably secures aportion of a solar panel, etc.). A fastener, in these embodiments, cancooperate with the support arm and the clamp assembly to increase ordecrease the independent degrees of displacement of the at least theportion of one of the bracket components when each bracket componentreleasably secures the portion of the corresponding solar panel. Forexample, when the fastener is loosened, the fastener can facilitate orincrease the degrees of displacement, and when the fastener istightened, it prohibits or decreases the independent degrees ofdisplacement.

In other embodiments, each bracket includes a top flange and a bottomflange that cooperate to releasably secure the portion of acorresponding solar panel. The brackets are composed of a first bracketcomponent and a second bracket component. Also, the bracket componentsinclude flanges. According to these embodiments, one of the flanges(e.g., top flange or bottom flange) for at least one of the bracketcomponents includes protrusions (e.g., spikes) that engage a portion ofthe corresponding solar panel to releasably secure the correspondingpanel. For example, the protrusions can puncture a frame of thecorresponding solar panel. Further, in certain instances, theprotrusions puncture the frame, including an anodize layer, to form anelectrical path.

In certain other embodiments, the solar panel mount assembly alsoincludes a base plate (which may be a flashing), which couples to thebase portion. In other embodiments, the solar panel mount assemblyincludes a wire clip disposed between the support arm and the clampassembly. The wire clip can, for example, releasably secure wiring forthe solar panel, retain/secure a fastener between the rotatable clampassembly and the support arm, include protrusions that penetrateanodization or paint on one or both the bottom clamp and the supportarm, thereby creating an electrical bond path between the arm, bottomclamp, and fastener.

According to another embodiment, a solar panel clamp assembly includes afirst bracket component that releasably secures a solar panel, and asecond bracket component having at least a portion of the second bracketcomponent independently movable relative to the first bracket componentwhen the first bracket component releasably secures the solar panel. Thesolar panel clamp assembly further includes a fastener that releasablysecures the first bracket component and the second bracket componenttogether to form the clamp assembly. The fastener facilitates orprohibits movement of the at least the portion of the second bracketcomponent. In addition, the first bracket and the second bracket eachinclude a corresponding top flange a bottom flange that cooperate tosecure a corresponding solar panel. Further, certain portions of thefirst bracket component form portions of the flange of the secondbracket when the fastener releasably secures the first bracket componentand the second bracket component together.

A method for securing solar panels to a solar panel mount assembly isalso disclosed. Steps for securing the solar panel include securing abase portion of the solar panel mount assembly to an installationsurface, and securing a support arm of the solar panel mount assembly tothe base portion. Notably, the support arm defines a support shoulderthat supports a rotatable clamp assembly, which clamp assembly includesat least a first bracket component and a second bracket component. Themethod also includes steps for releasably securing a first solar panelto the first bracket component of the rotatable clamp assembly,adjusting a degree of displacement for a portion of the second bracketcomponent independent from the first bracket component, and releasablysecuring a second solar panel to the second bracket component afteradjusting the degree of displacement for the portion of the secondbracket component. The degree of displacement for the portion of thesecond bracket component when the second solar panel is releasablysecured to the second bracket component by, for example, tightening afastener. In certain embodiments, the method further includes securingthe base portion to a base plate (e.g., a flashing, etc.) mounted to theinstallation surface.

Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be set forthin the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from thedescription, or can be learned by practice of the herein disclosedprinciples. The features and advantages of the disclosure can berealized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinationsparticularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and otherfeatures of the disclosure will become more fully apparent from thefollowing description and appended claims, or can be learned by thepractice of the principles set forth herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and otheradvantages and features of the disclosure can be obtained, a moreparticular description of the principles briefly described above will berendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which areillustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawingsdepict only exemplary embodiments of the disclosure and are nottherefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the principlesherein are described and explained with additional specificity anddetail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a front side perspective view of a panel mountassembly coupled to a base portion, according to one or more embodimentsof this disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a bottom side perspective view of the panel mount assemblyshown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A illustrates a front side exploded perspective view of the panelmount assembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3B and 3C illustrate portions of the front side explodedperspective view of FIG. 3A, showing independent degrees of displacementfor portions of a clamp assembly;

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional side elevation view of the baseportion coupled to a base plate, viewed from cut-lines 4-4 in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional side elevation view of anotherembodiment of the base portion coupled to the base plate, viewed fromcut-lines 5-5 in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 illustrates a back side perspective view of a portion of thepanel mount assembly shown in FIG. 1, showing a clamp assembly;

FIG. 7 illustrates a front side perspective view of another exemplaryembodiment of a clamp assembly;

FIG. 8 illustrates a front side perspective view of another exemplaryembodiment of a clamp assembly;

FIG. 9 illustrates a front side perspective view of the panel mountassembly shown in FIG. 1, coupling to the base portion;

FIG. 10 illustrates a front side perspective view of the panel mountassembly shown in FIG. 1, coupled to a solar panel;

FIG. 11A illustrates a back side perspective view of the panel mountassembly shown in FIG. 1, coupled to a solar panel;

FIG. 11B illustrates a front side perspective view of the panel mountassembly shown in FIG. 1, subsequently coupled to the solar panel;

FIG. 12 illustrates a front side perspective view of the clamp assemblyshown in FIG. 8, coupled to multiple solar panels; and

FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary simplified procedure for mounting solarpanels, in accordance with one or more embodiments of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While novel concepts of the invention herein are susceptible to numerousembodiments and implementations, they will be best understood by adetailed examination of certain specific embodiments. Such embodimentsare depicted in the drawings and described below. Additionally, althoughspecific embodiments and implementations are discussed below, it shouldbe understood that this is done for illustration purposes only. A personskilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components andconfigurations may be used without parting from the spirit and scope ofthe disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a front side perspective view of a panel mount assembly,generally designated by reference number 100, coupled to a base portion105, which base portion 105 is further coupled to a base plate 115(e.g., a flashing, etc.). Notably, base plate 115 can include asacrificial material, which may be attached to an installation surfacethereby reducing wear on the installation surface caused by support base105. As shown, panel mount assembly 100 and base portion 105 includecorresponding threading to allow panel mount assembly 100 to couple withbase portion 105.

Panel mount assembly 100 further includes a clamp assembly 120, asupport arm 110 that defines a support shoulder 111, and a wire clip145. As shown, clamp assembly 120 and wire clip 145 attach to supportarm 110 with a fastener 125 (e.g., bolt/nut, etc.). Panel clamp assembly120 further includes two brackets, which attach to respective solarpanels. As discussed herein, these brackets are referred to as a firstbracket 130 and a second bracket 140. The first bracket 130 and thesecond bracket 140 can be defined by separate bracket components 133,143 respectively. According to one or more embodiments discussed herein,a portion of first bracket component 133 defines a top portion of secondbracket 140.

Operatively, panel clamp assembly 120 is free to rotate around supportshoulder 111 (without interference) about a panel clamp axis 120 a(coincident to the location of fastener 125). As discussed in greaterdetail below, such rotation facilitates securing or coupling one or moresolar panels with clamp assembly 120.

In certain embodiments (not shown), support base 105 may connectdirectly to an installation surface (e.g., a roof) using, for example, ascrew type fastener, or alternatively, support base 105 may simply reston the installation surface (not be secured to the roof or anyunderlying structural members).

FIG. 2 illustrates a bottom side perspective view of panel mountassembly 100. As discussed above, panel mount assembly 100 and baseportion 105 include corresponding threading to allow panel mountassembly 100 to couple with base portion 105. As shown in FIG. 2, a wall213 of support arm 110 defines such threading, which engages withcorresponding threading on base portion 105. Moreover, rotation aroundsupport shoulder 111 is facilitated, in part, by a channel 212 (e.g., aslot) defined in support shoulder 111 that receives fastener 125. Inaddition to facilitating rotation around support shoulder 111, channel212 also facilitates movement along support shoulder 111, as isappreciated by those skilled in the art (e.g., sliding movement withinchannel 212). In some embodiments, the channel 212 in combination withthe shape of fastener 125 may prevent fastener 125 from rotating.

FIG. 3A illustrates a front side exploded perspective view of panelmount assembly 100. As discussed above, clamp assembly 120 includes afirst bracket 130 and a second bracket 140. The first bracket 130 andthe second bracket 140 can also be defined by separate bracketcomponents 133, 143 respectively. As shown in FIG. 3, each of thebracket components further includes one or more flanges, defining thebrackets. Here, first bracket component 133 includes a top flange 331and a corresponding bottom flange 332 for the first bracket 130 as wellas a top flange 341 for the second bracket 140. The second bracketcomponent 141 includes a bottom flange 342 for the second bracket 140.In some embodiments, top flange 331, bottom flange 332, and top flange341 are integrally formed from as a single component, while bottomflange 342 is independently formed. Forming at least one of the flangesindependently from flanges of another bracket component—here, bottomflange 342 is formed independently from bracket component 133 (and evenfrom corresponding top flange 341)—allows independent degrees ofdisplacement or movement for the associated bracket component—here,bottom flange 342 allows bracket component 143 to open further (or closefurther) when bottom flange 342 moves away from (or toward) top flange341, discussed in greater detail below. Notably, such degrees ofdisplacement are particularly useful when, for example, the respectivebracket receives or couples to a corresponding solar panel during aninstallation.

Panel mount assembly 100 also includes a fastener 125 that secures clampassembly 120 (and a wire clip 145) to support arm 110. In certainembodiments, wire clip 145 includes a serrated hole that provides afriction fit preventing fastener 125 from falling out of support arm 110when not fully tightened, as well as opposing protrusions that canpenetrate material of the bracket component 143 and support arm 110(e.g., an anodized layer/coating), thereby creating an electrical bondpath between all four respective components.

With respect to the degrees of displacement, FIGS. 3B and 3C,collectively, illustrate displacement for bottom flange 342 relative totop flange 341. As shown, portions of bottom flange 342—e.g., a bottomclamp face portion—are substantially oriented in a plane 342 p andportions of top flange 341—e.g., a top clamp face portion—aresubstantially oriented in a plane 341 p. The degree(s) of displacementfor bottom flange 342 relative to top flange 341 are shown, in part, bythe orientation of plane 341 p relative to plane 342 p and the angle ordegree formed there-between. As shown, FIG. 3B illustrates bottom flange342 moving away from top flange 341—i.e., the angle of displacementbetween planes 341 p and 342 p being greater than parallel, and FIG. 3Cillustrates bottom flange 342 moving toward top flange 341—e.g., theangle of displacement between planes 341 p and 342 p being less thanparallel.

Notably, the degree of displacement or movement is facilitated, in part,by fastener 125. Fastener 125 permits bottom flange 342 to move relativeto top flange 341 when, for example, fastener 125 is not fullytightened. Further, fastener 125 also secures bottom flange 342 and topflange 341 together as a bracket. For example, when fastener 125 istightened, it locks bottom flange 342 at a fixed distance from topflange 341—e.g., such that plane 341 p and plane 342 p are substantiallyparallel. In such instances, fastener 125 prevents degrees ofdisplacement between the bottom flange 342 and top flange 341 bycompressing portions of top flange 341 with portions of bottom flange342—e.g., the portions of each flange in communication with fastener125. Additionally, bracket 331 may have a ridge on the underside andagainst a vertical portion of flange 332 (not shown), which ridge mayact as a fulcrum point for flange 342 as fastener 125 is tightened orloosened.

FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate two embodiments or configurations to couplebase portion 105 to base plate 115. In particular, FIG. 4 is across-sectional side elevation of base portion 105 viewed from cut-lines4-4 in FIG. 1, and FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional side elevation of baseportion 105 viewed from cut-lines 5-5 in FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 4, base portion 105 includes base walls 406 thatdefine, for example, a tube having a hollow portion 407, and a separatecavity 408 or mounting chamber. Operatively, hollow portion 407 istypically sized to allow a fastener tool to secure fastener 425 to aninstallation surface (e.g., a roof joist, rafter, structural beam, orother appropriate structure) through base plate 115 and cavity 408. Aprotrusion 416 on base plate 115 protrudes some distance above its topsurface to provide an elevated hole location for fastener 425 to passthrough, which in turn reduces, for example, a possibility of water fromreaching fastener 425. Cavity 408 is typically sized to closely fit overprotrusion 416. For example, protrusion 416 and cavity 406 may be sizedsuch that some force or no force is required to press protrusion 416into cavity 406, and may be sized to create a seal, with or withoutcaulking Base walls 406 further separate cavity 408 from hollow portion407, and may act as the load transfer interface between support base 105and fastener 425. As shown, the walls 406 separate cavity 408 and hollowportion 407, and can be formed to include a flat surface, a dome shapedsurface. In some embodiments, walls 406 separate only certain portionsof cavity 408 and hollow portion 407—e.g., the walls can include holescentered through an axis of support base 105 to allow fastener 425 topass through with minimal hindrance.

In another embodiment shown in FIG. 5, base portion 105 includes basewalls 506 that define a hollow portion 507 without a correspondingcavity (e.g., 408), shown in FIG. 4. According to this embodiment, baseplate 115 includes protrusion 516—here, a cone-shaped protrusion—thatextends from base plate 115 to surround an outside of base portion 105.That is, base portion 105 (e.g., a lower part of base portion 105) canfits within protrusion 516. Protrusion 516 may have a concave shape, asshown, or may also include a diagonally straight shape, a convex shape,or some similar shape. Base portion 105, as shown in FIG. 5, alsoincludes a base floor 509 that sits flush with a lower surface of baseplate 115. In this fashion, base floor 509 acts as a barrier betweenhollow portion 507 and the installation surface (not shown), and mayfurther act as a load transfer interface between support base 105 andfastener 425. Notably, base floor 509 may have a dome shaped top surfaceas shown, or a flat surface.

FIG. 6 illustrates a back side or rear side perspective view of clampassembly 120 (e.g., viewed from the opposite side to that shown in FIG.1). As discussed above, clamp assembly 120 includes two brackets—firstbracket 130 and second bracket 140. Operatively, each bracket receives acorresponding solar panel within top flanges (331/341) and bottomflanges (332,342). As shown, second bracket 140 includes a secondbracket component 143 with a bottom flange 342 that allows for thedegrees of displacement or movement, discussed above. Such displacementor movement facilitates efficient solar panel installation since itaccommodates slight variances in solar panel frames, clip assemblyorientation, and the like. Put differently, first bracket 130 secures orcouples to a corresponding solar energy panel based on fixeddimensions—e.g., manufactured dimensions—for top flange 331 and bottomflange 332 whereas the second bracket 140 secures or couples to acorresponding solar energy panel by compression from fastener 125, whichcompresses the bottom flange 342 and top flange 341 together. Accordingto this embodiment, first bracket component 133, including top flange331 and bottom flange 332, and top flange 341 of second bracket 140 areunitarily formed or constructed as a single component, apart from bottomflange 342.

In addition, each flange also includes a corresponding protrusion or“tooth” configured to attach to a solar panel—e.g., secure to an insideof a solar panel frame, etc. Here, first bracket component 333 includesa protrusion 633 and second bracket component 343 140 includes aprotrusion 643. Protrusion 633 and 643 may extend vertically fromcorresponding bottom flanges a sufficient distance to prevent a solarpanel from dislodging from clamp assembly 120.

In certain other embodiments, each of the brackets can also receive andsecure an edge of a frameless solar energy panel. Additionally, eachbracket may be manufactured with different respective distances betweentop and bottom flanges to accommodate different sized solar energy panelframes, using the same clamp assembly. For example, one bracket may havea height such that a solar panel frame installs with little to nofriction between corresponding flanges. Further, top flanges 331 and 341may be shaped to not over-extend beyond the width of a solar panelframe, and may have a bevel to reduce possible shading on activeportions of the solar panel. For some embodiments, second bracket 140can have a box-shape profile, whereby a uniform wall vertical is formedwhen joining or compressing bottom flange 342 and top flange 341together. This box-shape profile reduces deflection of second bracket140 when put in compression (e.g., upon installation of a solar panel,etc.). In alternative embodiments (not shown) clamping surfaces—e.g.,top/bottom flanges may have a rubber-like surface to grip the edge of aframeless solar panel. Notably, in other embodiments, the top flange 331and bottom flanges 332 and 342 are formed from a single part, whileflange 341 is formed separate component without departing from the scopeof this disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a front side perspective view of another exemplaryembodiment of a clamp assembly 720. Clamp assembly 720, like clampassembly 120 includes two brackets—here bracket 730 and bracket 740,including respective top flanges 731/741 and bottom flanges 732/742.According to this embodiment, however, top flanges 731/741 are unitarilyformed from a single flange plate 750 and the bottom flanges 732/742 arelikewise unitarily formed from a single flange plate 755. Operativelysolar panels are secured or coupled to clamp assembly 720 by compressingflange plate 750 to flange plate 755, compressing both top flanges andbottom flanges for corresponding brackets together.

Additionally, as shown, bracket 730 is shown in an asymmetricalconfiguration where protrusions 733 (e.g., spikes, etc.) on bottomflange 732 protrude toward outward toward top flange 731. In someembodiments, protrusions 733 may be on flange 741, 742, or 731.Protrusions 733 may be sharp such that when a solar energy panel frameis compressed, they penetrate some distance into the solar panel frame.In some instances, the protrusions can extend through a paint or ananodize layer in the solar panel frame, in order to secure the solarenergy panel and also to create an electrical path. In other embodiments(not shown), bracket 730 and bracket 740 can be symmetrical, and caneach include protrusions 733.

FIG. 8 illustrates a front side perspective view of another exemplaryembodiment of a clamp assembly 820. Clamp assembly 820 includes multiplebrackets—830 a, 830 b, 840 a, and 840 b, formed by separate flangesplates—e.g., a single top flange plate 850 and multiple bottom flangeplates 855 a,b. As shown, each bracket includes corresponding topflanges 831(a,b)/841(a,b) and bottom flanges 842 (a, b (not shown))formed by compressing top flange plate 850 together with correspondingbottom flange plates 855 a,b. Notably, clamp assembly 820 shares asimilar cross section as clamp assembly 720, however, clamp assembly 820can also secure multiple solar panels (e.g., four panels) and/or secureto a single solar panel at multiple locations, discussed in greaterdetail below.

Referring to FIG. 9, a front side perspective view of panel mountassembly 100 is shown coupling to base portion 115. Although panel mountassembly 100 is shown with clamp assembly 120, any of the abovediscussed embodiments are interchangeable, as is appreciated by thoseskilled in the art. As shown in FIG. 9, one method for installing panelmount assembly 100 to base portion 115 includes rotating support arm 110about support arm axis 310 a, so that support arm 110 engagescorresponding threading on base portion 105. Notably, the threading maybe at a pitch such that each rotation of support arm 110 relative tobase portion 105 alters the vertical distance of the support armassembly relative to base portion 105. In preferred embodiments, supportarm 110 may be adjusted to a particular height relative to aninstallation surface. This is a key feature as it allows for quick andeasy adjustability of the height of the support arm above, for example,an installation surface, and requires no tools or additional alterationof the assembly (e.g., aside rotation of the support arm). Further,coupling panel mount assembly 100 with base portion 115 additionallyencloses hollow portion 407 or 507 (shown in FIGS. 4 and 5respectively), thereby preventing water or moisture from reachingfastener 425. Moreover, support arm 110 and clamp assembly 120 can bepre-assembled at an off-site location relative to the final installationlocation. This pre-assembly is a key feature of the design because itmay reduce the time spent installing a solar energy system at the finalinstallation site.

FIG. 10 is a front side perspective view of panel mount assembly 100coupled to a solar panel frame 1000. As shown, support arm 110 and clampassembly 120 are installed on base portion 105, with solar panel frame1000 engaging with panel clamp assembly 120. Panel clamp assembly mayengage with either the long side or short side of solar energy panel1000. In this configuration, the solar panel is moved and positioned toinstall onto a substantially stationary clamp assembly 120. The solarpanel may be installed at some angle greater than parallel to the clampbase of the panel clamp assembly, and upon engaging with the panel clampassembly, the solar panel may rotate down to be substantially parallelwith the base plate 115.

FIGS. 11A and 11B, collectively, illustrate another method for couplingmount assembly 100 to a corresponding solar panel frame. In particular,FIG. 11A illustrates a back side perspective view of the panel mountassembly 100, prior to coupling with a solar panel 1100, and FIG. 11Billustrates a front side perspective view of the panel mount assembly100 subsequently coupled to the solar panel 1100. Operatively, the solarpanel 1100 is substantially stationary, while panel mount assembly 100rotates into position. Here, support arm 110 and clamp assembly 120rotate and move to engage with solar panel 1100.

From FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B, support arm 110 and clamp assembly 120 arerotated about respective axis 310 a and 120 a to engage with solar panel1100. In this embodiment, bracket 140, including top flange 341 andbottom flange 342, engage solar panel 1100. Fastener 125 can be adjusted(loosened/tightened) to allow sufficient clearance between the eachflange to engage with the solar panel 1100. After coupling to solarpanel 1100, fastener can be tightened to compress the flanges together,as discussed above. Tightening fastener 125 also prevents clamp assembly120 from rotating around axis 120 a, and when solar panel 1100 issubstantially stationary, prevents support arm 110 from rotating aroundaxis 310 a.

FIG. 12 illustrates a front side perspective view of clamp assembly 820,coupled to multiple solar panels. As shown, clamp assembly 820 can beused without a support arm, or base portion. Further clamp assembly 820can be used to secure two or four panels in a single plane andessentially act as a splice. This splice can be further used inconjunction with other mounting assemblies, which would secure the solarpanels to an installation surface.

As discussed above, bottom flange plates 855 a,b can be compressed by afastener (not shown) toward top flange plate 850 thereby engagingmultiple brackets at the same time. In addition, clamp assembly 820 cansecure multiple solar panels at the same time—here, solar panel 1200 and1201. In this fashion, clamp assembly 820 may act to load balancevarious forces—e.g., transfer loads and forces acting on one solarenergy panel to the adjacent one or more solar energy panels.

FIG. 13 is an exemplary simplified procedure 1300 for mounting solarpanels to an installation surface, using a solar panel mount assembly,in accordance with one or more embodiments of this disclosure.

Procedure 1300 being at step 1305 and continues on to step 1310 wherethe rotatable clamp assembly is coupled to a support arm. As discussedabove, this step can be pre-assembled prior to arriving at aninstallation site, which facilitates efficient installation. Optionally,as shown in step 1315, the base portion can be further secured to aninstallation surface. In this case, a base plate or flashing will beplaced on an installation surface over a connection point (e.g. a hole),a base portion will be installed over the flashing, and a fastener willsecure the base portion and flashing to the installation surface.Alternatively, the base portion can simply rest on the top of theinstallation surface (e.g., for commercial installations with a flatinstallation surface/roof).Further, the clamp and support arm assemblyare attached to the base portion (e.g., using complimentary threadingpatterns). Operatively, the clamp and support arm assembly are rotatedwith respect to a base portion, engaging the threaded interface, therebyraising or lowering the clamp and support arm assembly to a desiredheight above an installation surface.

Next, in step 1320, a first solar panel is releasably secured to a firstbracket of the rotatable clamp assembly. As discussed above, the secondbracket, may include a corresponding top flange and bottom flange, whichare independently movable from the first bracket. Accordingly, in step1325, a degree of displacement or a degree of movement for a portion ofthe second bracket (e.g., one of the flanges) is adjusted independentfrom the first bracket. In this fashion, an installer has flexibilitywhen releasably securing (step 1330) a subsequent solar panel to thesecond bracket. Further, in step 1335, a fastener is tightened to fixthe degree of displacement for the portion of the second bracket whenthe second solar panel is releasably secured to the second bracket.Procedure 1300 subsequently ends at step 1340.

Although a variety of examples and other information was used to explainaspects within the scope of the appended claims, no limitation of theclaims should be implied based on particular features or arrangements insuch examples, as one of ordinary skill would be able to use theseexamples to derive a wide variety of implementations. Further andalthough some subject matter may have been described in languagespecific to examples of structural features and/or method steps, it isto be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claimsis not necessarily limited to these described features or acts. Forexample, such functionality can be distributed differently or performedin components other than those identified herein. Rather, the describedfeatures and steps are disclosed as examples of components of systemsand methods within the scope of the appended claims.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way ofillustration only and should not be construed to limit the scope of thedisclosure. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize variousmodifications and changes that may be made to the principles describedherein without following the example embodiments and applicationsillustrated and described herein, and without departing from the spiritand scope of the disclosure.

1. (canceled)
 2. A solar panel mounting clamp assembly, comprising: afirst bracket component that engages at least a front surface of one ormore solar panels; and a second bracket component that engages at leasta back surface of the one or more solar panels, the second bracketcomponent including a protrusion that serves as a fulcrum and engagesthe first bracket component, the first bracket component cooperatingwith the second bracket component to releasably secure the one or moresolar panels.
 3. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim 2,wherein the protrusion further comprises at least a tapered or roundprotrusion, the tapered or round protrusion configured as a fulcrum. 4.The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim 2, wherein theprotrusion is offset from a centerline of the second bracket component.5. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim 2, furthercomprising: a threaded base portion mountable to an installationsurface.
 6. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim 2, furthercomprising: a support arm configured to releasably connect to the secondbracket component.
 7. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim2, further comprising: a first aperture in the first bracket component;a second aperture in the second bracket component; and a fastenerpassing through the first aperture and the second aperture, andconnecting the first bracket component and the second bracket component.8. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim 7, wherein theprotrusion is offset from the second aperture.
 9. A solar panel mountingclamp assembly, comprising: a first bracket component that engages atleast a back surface of one or more solar panels; and a second bracketcomponent that engages at least a front surface of the one or more solarpanels, the second bracket component including a protrusion that servesas a fulcrum and engages the first bracket component, the first bracketcomponent cooperating with the second bracket component to releasablysecure the one or more solar panels.
 10. The solar panel mounting clampassembly of claim 9, wherein the protrusion that serves as a fulcrumfurther comprises a tapered or rounded protrusion.
 11. The solar panelmounting clamp assembly of claim 9, wherein the protrusion that servesas a fulcrum is offset from a centerline of the second bracketcomponent.
 12. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim 9,further comprising: a threaded base portion mountable to an installationsurface.
 13. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim 9, furthercomprising: a support arm configured to releasably connect to the firstbracket component.
 14. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim9, further comprising: a first aperture in the first bracket component;a second aperture in the second bracket component; and a fastenerpassing through the first aperture and the second aperture, andconnecting the first bracket component and the second bracket component.15. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim 14, wherein theprotrusion is offset from the second aperture.
 16. A solar panelmounting clamp assembly, comprising: a first bracket component thatengages at least a first surface of one or more solar panels, the firstbracket component further comprising: at least a first flange portion;and at least a first vertical portion; a second bracket component thatengages at least a second surface of the one or more solar panels, thesecond bracket component further comprising: at least a second flangeportion; at least a second vertical portion; and at least one protrusionthat serves as a fulcrum and engages the first bracket component,wherein the first bracket component cooperates with the second bracketcomponent to releasably secure the one or more solar panels.
 17. Thesolar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim 16, wherein the firstflange portion and the first vertical portion are substantiallyorthogonal to each other.
 18. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly ofclaim 16, wherein the protrusion is offset from a centerline of thesecond bracket component.
 19. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly ofclaim 16, wherein the second flange portion and the second verticalportion are substantially orthogonal to each other, and the at least oneprotrusion protrudes from the second flange portion and is adjacent thesecond vertical portion.
 20. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly ofclaim 16, wherein the at least one protrusion further comprises atapered or rounded protrusion.
 21. The solar panel mounting clampassembly of claim 16, further comprising: a threaded base portionmountable to an installation surface.
 22. The solar panel mounting clampassembly of claim 16, further comprising: a support arm configured toreleasably connect to one of the first bracket component or the secondbracket component.
 23. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim16, further comprising: a first aperture in the first bracket component;a second aperture in the second bracket component; and a fastenerpassing through the first aperture and the second aperture, andconnecting the first bracket component and the second bracket component.24. The solar panel mounting clamp assembly of claim 23, wherein theprotrusion is offset from the second aperture.
 25. A solar panelmounting clamp assembly, comprising: a first bracket component thatengages at least a first surface of one or more solar panels, the firstbracket component further comprising: at least a first flange portion;and at least a first aperture; a second bracket component that engagesat least a second surface of the one or more solar panels, the secondbracket component further comprising: at least a second flange portion;and at least a second aperture; a fastener configured to connect thefirst bracket component with the second bracket component by passingthrough the first aperture and second aperture; and at least oneprotrusion that is offset from the fastener to serve as a fulcrum andengage the first bracket component, wherein the first bracket componentcooperates with the second bracket component to releasably secure theone or more solar panels.